It is common for device coupled to a primary network to have preferential access to network resources compared to a device coupled to a guest network. However, the quality of experience (QoE) is enhanced by providing automatic switching of a client device on a guest network to a primary network. The dynamic approach switches the network connection of a client device used by a guest user/client device from a guest network to a primary network based on one or more network conditions that are associated with the guest network, the primary network, or both. Seamlessly switching the client device to the primary network, when such does not impact existing users of the primary network, enhances the network experience of the client devices initially associated with the guest network.
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2. The access point device of claim 1, wherein the monitoring the one or more network conditions comprises monitoring the connection duration of the client device, wherein the guest SSID has an associated guest SSID connection threshold, and wherein the client device is switched based, at least in part on, a comparison of the guest SSID connection threshold and the connection duration.
This invention relates to wireless network management, specifically optimizing client device connectivity by dynamically switching between network access points based on monitored network conditions. The problem addressed is inefficient client device handling in wireless networks, particularly in environments with multiple access points, such as guest networks where devices may remain connected unnecessarily or inefficiently. The system includes an access point device that monitors network conditions, including the connection duration of a client device. A guest SSID (Service Set Identifier) is configured with a predefined connection threshold. The access point compares the client device's connection duration to this threshold. If the connection duration exceeds the threshold, the client device is switched to a different access point or network segment to improve resource allocation, reduce congestion, or enforce usage policies. This dynamic switching ensures optimal network performance and security, particularly in guest or high-traffic environments where static configurations may lead to inefficiencies. The system may also involve additional network conditions, such as signal strength or bandwidth usage, to further refine switching decisions. The invention enhances network management by automating client device transitions based on real-time conditions, improving overall network efficiency and user experience.
4. The access point device of claim 3, wherein sending the message triggers 1) a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) protected setup (WPS) request on the client device, an extender access point device, or both; 2) sends an indication to a user; or both.
This invention relates to wireless network access point devices and methods for facilitating secure network connections. The problem addressed is the complexity and inefficiency in establishing secure connections between client devices and access points, particularly in scenarios involving Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) protocols. The invention provides an access point device configured to send a message that initiates a WPS request on a client device, an extender access point, or both. The message can also send an indication to a user, such as a notification or prompt, to guide the connection process. The access point device may include a processor and a network interface to handle these operations. The invention aims to streamline the setup process, reduce user intervention, and enhance security by automating or simplifying the WPS initiation. This is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices or extenders are involved, ensuring seamless and secure network access. The solution improves user experience by minimizing manual steps and potential errors during network configuration.
5. The access point device of claim 1, wherein the network load parameter is indicative of a total number of client devices connected to the guest network, and wherein switching the client device from the guest network to the primary network is based, at least in part, on the network load parameter.
This invention relates to wireless network management, specifically optimizing network performance by dynamically switching client devices between a primary network and a guest network based on network load conditions. The problem addressed is inefficient resource allocation in wireless networks where guest networks, often used for temporary or low-priority access, can become overloaded, degrading performance for both guest and primary network users. The system includes an access point device that monitors network load parameters, such as the total number of client devices connected to the guest network. When the guest network load exceeds a threshold, the access point identifies client devices eligible for migration and switches them to the primary network. This migration is based on predefined criteria, such as the network load parameter, to balance traffic and improve overall network efficiency. The primary network is typically reserved for higher-priority or authenticated users, while the guest network serves temporary or lower-priority connections. The access point may also evaluate additional factors, such as device type, usage patterns, or service level agreements, to determine which devices to migrate. By dynamically adjusting network assignments, the system ensures optimal performance for all connected devices while maintaining security and prioritization between network types. This approach prevents guest network congestion and enhances the user experience for both primary and guest network users.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein the monitoring the one or more network conditions comprises monitoring the connection duration of the client device, wherein the guest SSID has an associated guest SSID connection threshold, and wherein the client device is switched based, at least in part on, a comparison of the guest SSID connection threshold and the connection duration.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein sending the message triggers 1) a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) protected setup (WPS) request on the client device, an extender access point device, or both; 2) sends an indication to a user; or both.
12. The method of claim 8, wherein the network load parameter is indicative of a total number of client devices connected to the guest network, and wherein switching the client device from the guest network to the primary network is based, at least in part, on the network load parameter.
18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 17, wherein sending the message triggers 1) a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) protected setup (WPS) request on the client device, an extender access point device, or both; 2) sends an indication to a user; or both.
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August 20, 2021
May 28, 2024
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